KNOW THIS ESCORT ENGINE SWAPS
PINTO
It’s the classic Escort engine swap. Here’s what you need to know
Engine
If you can start with an ex-RS2000 Pinto, so much the better, especially if it’s got the correct sump and exhaust manifold. But the ideal base is a later engine — the 205 block as opposed to the Cortina engine (which the RS2000 engine will actually be). A late Sierra injection engine is what you want, especially if you plan further tuning, plus the cylinder head is unleaded friendly.
Engine mounts
The common route is using the alloy mounts from an RS2000, but many base the installation round a World Cup Crossmember. Even with this method, mounts are available off-the-shelf. The only thing you may have to watch with a standard shell is the lip at the back of the bulkhead, which may need trimming back to clear the longer engine.
Sump
The ideal sump is an RS2000 alloy item, which is a rear-bowl affair, and it also has the built-in mounting for the clutch cable, although that problem’s easily fixed for non-RS sumps using a Retro Ford Limited adapter bracket on an RS2000 bellhousing. This route’s not difficult since the RS2000 sump is widely reproduced — make sure you buy a good one and don’t forget the oil pick-up pipe.
Gearbox
Easiest solution? Use the Type-E four-speed. On the RS2000 Ford relieved the inside-tunnel strengthening ribs, then dropped the crossmember down on special alloy blocks. The ’box is also mounted on the now widely-reproduced RS2000 bellhousing. The RS2000 prop is a two-piece, but you can also buy a conversion single-piece prop that bolts straight in.
Gearbox crossmember
The Type-9’s mounted in a similar way although the mounts actually need removing and shifting back in the tunnel, or fabricate new ones. Plus you’ll still need those revisions to the tunnel saddle, too. It’s now easier to use a Retro Ford universal crossmember, while they also
